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Abstract:

In recent years the Central Statistics Office (CSO) has published detailed analyses
of the redistributive effects of State taxes and social benefits on household incomes
in 1973 and 1980 based on the results of large scale national Household Budget
Surveys (HBS). Some methodological issues and qualifications relating to the CSO
analyses are first discussed. The 1980 analysis is then looked at in some detail
concentrating mainly on special classifications of the results which were not
provided in the published report. The earlier 1973 national analysis is considered
next and the changes which occurred in the degree of redistribution between 1973
and 1980 are examined. Following this, previously unpublished results of urban
analyses based on the 1974-79 smallscale continuing urban HBS are presented.
The paper concludes with an analysis of the degree of progressivity/regressivity of
different taxes and benefits and how this has varied between 1973 and 1980.
One of the mam purposes of the paper is to outline the range of data which is
currently available and the extent of analysis which is possible. In this context it is
worthwhile reminding interested parties that it is possible for them to complete
analyses based on the micro data at household level held on computer tape via long
standing CSG access arrangements which preserve the confidentiality guaranteed
to the respondents who co-operated voluntarily in the HBS.